In a grand celebration marking National Sports Day 2026, the National Service Scheme (NSS - Unit 130) of the Government Arts and Science College, Thaneerpanthampatti, Vedasandur, in association with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (GoI) and MY Bharat Kendra, organized the “Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect” (Developed India - Youth Connect) virtual interactive session with the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
The program featured the “Khelo India Samvaad – Khel Ki Baat PM ke Saath” (Play India Dialogue - Talk on Sports with the Prime Minister), giving participants an engaging platform to connect with the Prime Minister's vision for sports excellence and nation-building.
The event took place at the college's Mathematics Smart Room and Thiruvalluvar Arangam on August 27, 2026, gathering students, faculty members, and distinguished guest dignitaries.
Address by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi:
In his inspiring address, the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the critical role of the youth in steering India toward becoming a developed nation ("Viksit Bharat"). Highlighting the transformative impact of sports, the Prime Minister shared how initiatives like Khelo India and MY Bharat are democratizing opportunities for young talents from every corner of the country, enabling rural athletes to shine on national and international stages. He urged the youth to cultivate physical fitness, resilience, and sportsmanship, framing sports not merely as a pastime but as a cornerstone for character building and leadership. Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi passionately called upon the youth to spearhead social campaigns, strongly advocating for a drug-free society to safeguard the potential of India's demographic dividend.
As part of the initiative, the students also solemnly took the “Nasha Mukt Yuva For Viksit Bharat” (Addiction -Free Youth for Developed India) Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free India and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle among the youth.
Key Highlights & Distinguished Guests:
The session was graced by several eminent personalities who shared their insights and encouraged youth participation in sports and national development:
Sivashanmugam E (District Youth Officer, MY Bharat Kendra - Dindigul, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, GoI) highlighted various government schemes empowering young athletes and volunteers across the region.
Jithin RC (National Athlete - Long Jump) shared his journey in sports, emphasizing discipline, perseverance, and physical fitness as key components for personal and national success.
Abishek P (Research Scholar, Department of Geology, GRI & Youth Icon) inspired students to integrate academic excellence with active involvement in community development.
Kavya V (Final Year Civil Engineering Student, GRI, VBVVP Participant & Emerging Youth Icon) spoke on youth leadership and the role of young minds in driving the vision of a developed India.
Shan Sam S (All India University Basketball Player & 100m Athletics Competitor) encouraged students to actively take up sports and push their athletic boundaries.
Mohan Kumar T & Hari Baskar R (Local Sports Personalities, College Alumni & All India University Powerlifting Gold Medalists) shared their inspiring journeys from college athletes to national champions, motivating the youth through their achievements.
Mr. Vijay (Local Influencer, Vedasandur – Insta ID: @My Dear Makkale) highlighted the positive role of modern media and social platforms in spreading awareness about sports and social causes.
Panel Feature: Transforming Grassroots Sports:
A captivating highlight of the event was a dynamic dialogue between Youth Icon Abishek P and all other Sportsman centered on "The 12-Year Evolution of Indian Sports Infrastructure."
Grassroots Revolution: The panelists detailed how sports facilities have transformed over the last decade (2014–2026), evolving from basic rural setups to modern, accessible training hubs under flagship schemes like Khelo India.
Empowering Regional Talent: The alumni highlighted how upgraded training equipment, better nutrition guidelines, and structured district-level competitions now allow athletes from smaller towns like Vedasandur to compete at the national level on equal footing.
Call to Action: The session inspired attending students to utilize updated facilities actively, viewing sports not just as a pastime, but as a viable professional career path.
The overall program was presided over in the presence of Dr. K. M. Sumathi, Principal (FAC), who lauded the organizers and encouraged students to actively participate in sports, social awareness drives, and nation-building activities.
Organizing Team & Execution:
The successful execution of the event was driven by the dedication of the organizing team:
Convenor: Dr. A. Karthikeyan (NSS & MY Bharat Programme Officer)
Organizing Committee Members: Mr. A. Thirumurugan, Dr. A. Sebastian Selvaraj, Dr. A. Nithya, and Dr. J. Maruthupandi
Moderator: Dr. AR. Murugan
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session where students expressed their enthusiasm for participating in future national youth development programs.
